Literary notes about Operative (AI summary)
The word “operative” in literature is used to denote active, effective forces—whether they be physical, social, or conceptual. Authors sometimes apply it to describe fundamental perceptual or societal mechanisms that are “in force,” as seen when ideas are understood to be present and operative in everyday experience [1, 2]. In other texts the term takes on a more literal sense, referring to the skilled craftspeople of ancient trades, such as operative masons, whose tangible work is imbued with symbolic importance [3, 4, 5]. Moreover, “operative” appears in discussions of institutions and processes where its meaning extends to practices carried out with precision and functionality, bridging the gap between abstract principles and practical application [6, 7, 8].
- In its more complex forms it presupposes trains of ideas; but in its essential features it is present and operative at the perceptual level.
— from Introduction to the Science of Sociology by E. W. Burgess and Robert Ezra Park - If a trait occurs everywhere, it might veritably be the product of some universally operative social law.
— from Introduction to the Science of Sociology by E. W. Burgess and Robert Ezra Park - To the operative mason their mechanical and practical use alone is signified, and nothing more of value does their presence convey to his mind.
— from The symbolism of Freemasonry : by Albert Gallatin Mackey - That in those days the ordinary operative masons could neither read nor write, is a fact established by history.
— from The Principles of Masonic Law by Albert Gallatin Mackey - But the operative mason required materials wherewith to construct his temple.
— from The symbolism of Freemasonry : by Albert Gallatin Mackey - This law is mechanically or mathematically operative; its workings can be scientifically manipulated by men of divine wisdom.
— from Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda - In no revival of a past experience are all the items of our thought equally operative in determining what the next thought shall be.
— from The Principles of Psychology, Volume 1 (of 2) by William James - A power to direct the operative faculties to motion or rest in particular instances is that which we call the WILL.
— from An Essay Concerning Humane Understanding, Volume 1 by John Locke
